"Let's Use PISA as an Opportunity to Improve Teaching! Statement by IWM Director Ulrike Cress"

The recently published results of the PISA 2022 study are causing a stir in the media and within the education sector. The academic performance of fifteen-year-olds in Germany has taken a noticeable nosedive in mathematics, reading and science. In all three subjects, there has been a significant decline in competence compared to the last assessment in 2018: a drop of 25 points in maths, 18 points in reading and 11 points in science.

Ulrike Cress, Director of the IWM, puts the PISA results into context and highlights the potential role of digital media in addressing these challenges:

"PISA 2022 shows that we are no longer supporting students effectively. Both high- and low-achieving students are experiencing a significant decline in performance, particularly in key subjects such as maths, reading and science. What we urgently need are teaching strategies that build essential skills in students. Digital media can play a valuable role in this context. However, they should not be used solely for entertainment or distraction, but to provide intellectual challenge and stimulate learning. This requires their precise integration into specific subjects, supported by appropriate tools and targeted teacher training. Let's use PISA as an opportunity to improve teaching!"

Research Hub on Digital Education 
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The Leibniz Institut für Wissensmedien is actively involved in several projects investigating different aspects of digital education. Ongoing investigations include how students can effectively learn STEM subjects using digital tools, and the potential role of digital technologies in future STEM education. For more details on current digital education projects at the IWM, please visit the regularly updated website: https://forschungshub-digitale-bildung.de